If your teeth have suddenly become sensitive to temperature or you get pain when you chew, you may have a cracked tooth. Any part of your tooth can develop a crack and depending on where it occurs, the crack may not always be visible. If you suspect you may have a cracked tooth, you should book an appointment to see a dentist at our Centennial and Denver dental offices as soon as possible. Without treatment, you will experience more pain and discomfort over time and possibly lose the tooth.
Have a Cracked Tooth? Know the Different Types
There are many types of cracks and fractures that require different treatments. Some of the most common types are:
- Craze lines. These are tiny cracks which affect only the outer enamel. Craze lines don’t cause pain and are of no concern beyond appearance. The tooth is typically restored with a veneer.
- Fractured cusp. Fractures can result when the pointed part of the chewing surface gets weak and may break off. The tooth is typically restored with a crown.
- Cracked tooth which may extend to the gum line. This type of crack extends from the chewing surface toward the root and can often result in damage to the pulp. The tooth is possibly treated with a root canal and crown.
- Split tooth. Cracked teeth which aren’t treated can split into two separate segments and usually can’t be saved. The tooth needs to be extracted.
- Vertical root fracture. These cracks begin on the chewing surface and extend to the root. Likely these teeth will need root canal therapy and a crown or extraction.
What Are the Typical Cracked Tooth Symptoms?
Cosmetic dentistry and General dentistry can help to repair cracked teeth but you need to know the cracked tooth symptoms so you can seek prompt treatment. Symptoms may include:
Sensitivity to cold, heat or sweetness
Erratic Pain when biting or chewing
Pain that comes and goes
Swelling of the gum
If you’re experiencing any of these cracked tooth symptoms, you should see a dentist as soon as possible for treatment.
What Cracked Tooth Treatment Can I Get?
Unlike a broken bone, the fracture in a cracked tooth will never heal. Some cracks may progress and separate, resulting in the loss of the tooth. Placement of a crown on a cracked tooth provides maximum protection but does not guarantee success in all cases. The treatment you receive for your cracked tooth is important because it will relieve pain and reduce the likelihood that the crack will worsen. The cracked tooth treatment your dentist will recommend depends on the type, location, and severity of the break. Treatments include:
- Porcelain veneers. This procedure involves the dentist covering the surface of the tooth with a thin layer of porcelain.
- Porcelain crown. A zirconia or porcelain cap is custom made for added support.
- Root canal. If the crack extends to the pulp, your dentist may recommend an endodontist remove the damaged pulp.
- Extraction. If the tooth, root, and/or nerves are severely damaged and saving the tooth is not possible, then extraction may be the only solution.
Common Causes of a Cracked Tooth
Several issues can lead to a cracked tooth including:
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Teeth grinding
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Large fillings (especially metal fillings)
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Chewing hard foods
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Trauma to the mouth/head
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Abrupt changes in temperature in the mouth
To schedule a visit or learn more about porcelain veneers, crowns and other treatments for a cracked tooth, call us at 303-768-8443.
Get Treatment for Your Cracked Tooth in Denver, CO and Centennial, CO
If you are looking for dental care in Denver, CO or Centennial, CO, you need to see a dentist at Metro Smiles for dental services as soon as possible. Dr. Robin Asbury is a 5280 Top Cosmetic Dentist, and we’ll ensure you get the best treatment. We serve Denver Highlands, West Highlands, Denver Tech Center, Sloan’s Lake, RiNO Art District, LODO, Centennial Park Meadows, and the surrounding area.
